Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the tropics right into your kitchen. This recipe is simple and perfect for busy weekdays or weekend gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory sauces creates a meal that is both comforting and irresistible. Whether you serve it over rice, on sandwiches, or toss it into a salad, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table.

If you’re looking for something that is easy to prepare yet feels special, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken and how to make it with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken offers a tantalizing mix of flavors and a fantastic aroma that fills your home. Here’s why you’re going to adore this recipe:

1. Effortless Cooking: This dish requires minimal preparation. Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the work for you.

2. Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet pineapple juice and savory ingredients provides a deliciously sweet and tangy taste that excites your palate.

3. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in a variety of ways—over steaming hot rice, in a wrap, or piled high on a sandwich for a tasty lunch.

4. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a party or just having family dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.

5. Meal Prep Friendly: It’s an excellent choice for meal prepping. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is sweet, savory, and irresistibly tender. With pineapple juice, garlic, and a hint of ginger, it’s the perfect balance of tropical flavor and comfort food. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
• Optional: chopped bell peppers, pineapple chunks, chopped green onions, sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the pineapple juice until smooth, then add brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, and ginger (if using). Simmer for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to coat in the sauce. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with steamed veggies.
7. Optional: Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or pineapple chunks before serving.

Notes

• To make this gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
• You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for even juicier meat.
• Add bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for a tender-crisp bite.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: undefined
• Trans Fat: undefined
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: slow cooker hawaiian chicken, pineapple chicken, easy crockpot dinner, sweet and savory chicken, Hawaiian chicken recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

To create this mouth-watering dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, chicken breasts cook beautifully in the slow cooker, becoming tender and juicy.

• 1 cup chopped onion: Adds a savory base that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• 2 Tablespoons butter: For sautéing the onions and adding richness to the sauce.

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the sauce and gives it a satisfying consistency.

• 2 cups pineapple juice: The sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple juice is what gives this dish its Hawaiian flair.

• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

• 3/4 cup ketchup: A staple ingredient that balances the sweetness with a bit of tang.

• 1 Tablespoon soy sauce: Introduces a salty, umami flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic packs a punch of flavor, making every bite delicious.

• 1 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: For an extra layer of savoriness that enhances the overall flavor.

• 1 teaspoon salt: To taste and enhance all the flavors.

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a hint of heat.

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides an additional layer of onion flavor.

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional): Adds a subtle warmth and spice that can elevate the dish.

Optional Add-Ons

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken with these optional ingredients:

• Chopped bell peppers: Add colorful veggies for extra crunch and flavor.

• Pineapple chunks: For an even fruitier taste, toss in some fresh pineapple or canned pineapple chunks.

• Chopped green onions: These can be sprinkled on top for a fresh finish.

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of these can add a lovely texture and an Asian-style flair.

How to Make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a breeze. Follow these detailed steps to make this flavorful dish:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. This will make the cooking process smooth and efficient. Make sure your slow cooker is ready to go!

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a large glass measuring cup or mixing bowl, combine:

• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1 Tablespoon soy sauce
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (if using)

Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed. Set this mixture aside; we’ll use it for the chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling gently, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and starts to turn golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once your onion is nicely sautéed, stir in 1/4 cup of flour. This will help thicken your sauce later. Cook for another minute, stirring well to avoid any lumps.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now, pour the pineapple juice mixture you prepared earlier into the skillet with the butter and sautéed onions. Stir everything together while bringing it to a gentle boil. Let it boil for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

Place 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and set your slow cooker to low heat. Let it cook for 8 hours.

Step 7: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. It should be tender and easy to shred. Use two large forks to shred the chicken into pieces. You can return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it back with the delicious sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

You can serve the Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken in various ways:

• On sandwich rolls for a delectable sub.
• Over hot, fluffy rice.
• In salads for a refreshing twist.

This versatile dish is sure to become a favorite.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Here are some fantastic ways to serve your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken:

1. On Rice: Serve over a mound of steaming white or brown rice for a classic and filling dish.

2. In Sandwiches: Pile the shredded chicken onto soft sandwich rolls and top with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.

3. Tacos or Wraps: Use tortillas to create delightful tacos or wraps. Add toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or avocado to enhance the flavor.

4. On Salads: Place the Hawaiian chicken on top of a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad toppings and dressing.

5. With Extra Pineapple: Add grilled pineapple slices for a burst of flavor and texture that complements the chicken perfectly.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and fresh pineapple juice. It makes a significant difference in flavor.

2. Don’t Skip the Sautéing: Sautéing the onions before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor, making the dish more aromatic.

3. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar according to your taste.

4. Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the chicken right after shredding. It retains more moisture when still warm.

5. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for an added flavor boost.

Easy Variations for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

While the original recipe is delicious, here are some easy variations you might want to try:

• Spicy Hawaiian Chicken: Add chopped jalapeños or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Tropical Chicken: Incorporate diced mango or papaya for a different tropical flavor.

• Teriyaki Style: Substitute teriyaki sauce for soy sauce for a different twist on flavors.

• BBQ Hawaiian Chicken: Use your favorite barbecue sauce in place of ketchup for a smoky flavor.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit for a plant-based version.

Storage Tips to Store Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Leftover Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken can keep for several days. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its flavor:

1. Cool Down: Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature before storing.

2. Use Airtight Containers: Place the chicken and sauce in airtight containers. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the dish fresh.

3. Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

4. Freeze for Later: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Transfer it to freezer-safe bags, remove as much air as possible, and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

5. Thaw Properly: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings a taste of the islands into your home. Its sweet and savory flavors, combined with tender chicken, create a satisfying dish that your whole family will love. With its simplicity and versatility, you have a winner that can adapt to your taste and preferred serving style.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try—your taste buds are in for a treat!

FAQs About Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this easy and delicious Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken!

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